Itinerary Highlights
- Enjoy a day out at Tokyo Disneyland with a variety of attractions and rides
- Learn about the longstanding connection that Kanazawa has with samurai
- Cycle through the hidden backstreets of Kyoto to see it from another side
- Head out to Universal Studios Japan in Osaka for a brilliant family day out
What's Included
- Accommodation Throughout
- Breakfast
- Domestic Flights
- International Flights
15 nights from £4,665 per person
Peter
Travel Specialist
Journey across the stunning country of Japan on this exhilarating 15-night family adventure that encompasses incredible activities in Tokyo, Nagoya, Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto and Osaka. From crossing the iconic Shibuya “Scramble” to visiting plenty of theme parks along the way, you and your loved ones will have the time of your lives – spending quality time together every step of the way.
Starting in Tokyo, you’ll immerse yourself in cultural highlights that include the Meiji Shrine, Nakamise Street and Asakusa. Tokyo Disneyland also features, with its array of thrilling rides.
After experiencing the bullet train, you’ll end up in Nagoya. Studio Ghibli Park is located here, offering you a brilliant day out exploring its attractions. Takayama is next up, during which you cycle through charming canal-lined streets in the town of Hida-Furukawa along with an expert local guide.
Over in Kanazawa, delve into the country’s traditional culture through a woodcarving tour in Imami prior to discovering the city’s longstanding connection to the samurai at the Nomura Samurai House.
Kyoto and Osak round off your family adventure. The former allows you to explore its hidden backstreets on a cycling tour and see the wandering deer that roam free throughout Nara Park. Whereas the latter boasts the child-friendly Universal Studios Japan with its world-famous blockbuster franchises, as well as a bustling nightlife home to some of the world’s best street foods.
Itinerary
Day 1 | Fly UK to Tokyo, Japan
Fly from the UK to Tokyo, Japan. After arriving at the airport, transfer to your hotel, where you can relax for the rest of the day or head out and explore the local area. Overnight at Keio Plaza Hotel.
Day 2 | Tokyo
Start your family holiday with a visit to Asakusa District, home to charming shops and restaurants in addition to the oldest temple in the city – Sensoji. As well as being able to walk along Nakamise Street, you’ll visit Japan’s most iconic Shinto shrine, Meiji Shrine, and explore some of the latest trends in Shibuya, the pulsating centre of Tokyo’s youth culture. Cross the world-famous “Scramble” crossing and experience the hectic pace of the city. Overnight at Keio Plaza Hotel.
Staying at
Keio Plaza Hotel
Day 3 | Tokyo
Enjoy a relaxing morning prior to visiting Ebisu, known for its authentic Izakaya (Japanese-style gastro pubs). Whether it’s yakitori grilled chicken skewers, sashimi or fried noodles, there are plenty of local delicacies for you to tuck into. At the end of the tour, you even get to sample Japanese sweets. Some examples include dorayaki (which consists of two small pancake-like patties with a sweet azuki bean paste) and mochi (a Japanese rice cake). Overnight at Keio Plaza Hotel.
Staying at
Keio Plaza Hotel
Day 4 | Tokyo
Today is a day designed for the children (and those adults who are Disney aficionados at heart!). Spend time together at Tokyo Disneyland, during which you’re able to test out a variety of thrilling attractions and rides. Some include the swash-buckling Pirates of the Caribbean ride and Cinderella’s Fairy Tale Hall experiential attraction. Also, be sure to download the Disneyland app in advance to make reservations for the rides as well as restaurants. Overnight at Keio Plaza Hotel.
Staying at
Keio Plaza Hotel
Day 5 | Nagoya
Nagoya
Board a bullet train, The Shinkansen, to experience Japan’s high-speed railway service from Tokyo to Nagoya – which takes less than an hour-and-a-half to complete. You may even want to upgrade to Green Car class (equivalent of First-Class) for a superior experience. Usually less crowded and quieter, these cars are the perfect way of travelling via bullet train in the country. After arriving in Nagoya, you’ll get to enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight at Hotel Keihan Nagoya.
Day 6 | Nagoya
Nagoya
Continue the fun with a magical day out at Studio Ghibli Park, based on the popular films produced by the studio. Throughout the day, learn about the films and how they were made, be part of the displays and explore the play areas. Even if you’re not familiar with the movies, your children will love the variety of interactive spaces, exhibitions and screening rooms. There are even towers, castles, flying machines and more for you to explore. Overnight at Hotel Keihan Nagoya.
Day 7 | Takayama
Takayama
Embark on a journey aboard the Limited Express train (the second fastest in Japan after Shinkansen) from Nagoya to Takayama – which takes around two hours and 15 minutes to complete. Gaze outside your window at the passing Japanese countryside and mountain landscape of the Alps, all the while relaxing in the comfort of your cart with onboard amenities available. After arriving in Takayama, you’ll get to enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight at Hidatei Hanaougi.
Day 8 | Takayama
Takayama
Escape the hustle and bustle of big city life on a cycling tour of Hida-Furukawa. Passing by charming canal-lined streets and traditional buildings, you make your way through the quaint country town at a leisurely pace, being able to see its well-preserved architecture on the way through. Alongside your knowledgeable guide, you’ll be immersed in local life while learning everything there is to know about the area, including the breweries which produce sake. Overnight at Hidatei Hanaougi.
Day 9 | Kanazawa
Kanazawa
Following your stint in Takayama, head to the country’s woodcarving capital, Imami. To see some of the master sculptors at work, stroll along the cobblestones of the atmospheric Yokamachi Street. Then stop at Zuisenji Temple, which is adorned with intricate carved decorations, before a hands-on woodcarving workshop. Finally, finish the day by visiting UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ainokura, to see the traditional Gassho-zukuri thatched roof farmhouses. Overnight at Hotel Nikko Kanazawa.
Day 10 | Kanazawa
Kanazawa
Discover Kanazawa’s longstanding connection to the samurai. This includes a walk along the ancient walls of Kanazawa Castle Park, all the while marvelling at the castle ruins and learning about its importance in the history of the Maeda Clan. You also have a chance to delve into Nagamachi Samurai district, home to the Nomura Samurai House. Inside are artifacts from the Edo period and personal belongings of the Nomura family who once lived here. Overnight at Hotel Nikko Kanazawa.
Staying at
Hotel Nikko Kanazawa
Day 11 | Kyoto
Travel from Kanazawa to Kyoto on the Limited Express train – which takes around one hour and 40 minutes to complete. While in the city, your first port of call is the Kyoto International Manga Museum. Children will adore the extensive array of Japanese comics and graphic novels on display, including the ever-popular manga books created by local and international artists. As well as browsing the shelves, speak with the artists about their passion. Overnight at Hyatt Regency Kyoto.
Day 12 | Kyoto
See Kyoto from an alternative angle via bike. This on-wheels adventure takes in the hidden backstreets of the station before moving through the winding alleys in town. With your expert tour guide at hand to provide commentary on the area, you’ll learn about the former capital’s history and heritage along the way. Pedal through the geisha districts of Miyagawacho and Gion as well as along the Shirakawa River towards Kyoto Imperial Palace Park. Overnight at Hyatt Regency Kyoto.
Staying at
Hyatt Regency Kyoto
Day 13 | Kyoto
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nara is your next destination. Begin at Todaiji Temple, the world’s largest wooden building standing at over 155 feet. Inside is the world’s largest bronze Great Buddha statue, measuring almost 50 feet in height, its ears over eight feet in length. Next up is Kasuga Taisha, a beautiful Shinto shrine decorated with its famous lanterns. Afterwards, wander through Nara Park and visit the impressive Fushimi Inari Shrine. Overnight at Hyatt Regency Kyoto.
Staying at
Hyatt Regency Kyoto
Day 14 | Osaka
Osaka
Head on over to Osaka for an exciting day at Universal Studios Japan. Attractions such as various Super Mario rides and Minions-themed rides are perfect for children of all ages to have fun with. Watch as your younger ones have the times of their lives throughout the park. Depending on what time of year you visit, you may even be able to partake in various events, whether that be immersive puzzle-solving experiences or amazing 4D adventures. Overnight at Conrad Osaka.
Day 15 | Osaka
Osaka
On your last full day in Japan, you’ll get to explore the lively city of Osaka in the evening. The buzz of this bustling, neon-lit destination is something truly unique. During your evening tour, indulge in a mix of street food and sit-down izakaya delicacies with food and drink stops around every corner. Just imagine being able to savour mouth-watering edamame and gyoza dishes before sipping on a traditional sake, all the while watching the world go by around you. Overnight at Conrad Osaka.
Staying at
Conrad Osaka
Day 16 | Flight Home
You have some time at leisure before transferring to Osaka airport for your flight back home. Speak to our Travel Specialists about extending your stay in Japan or stopping elsewhere on the way home.
Peter
Travel Specialist
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15 nights from £4,665 per person
